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West Midlands Police pair to take centre stage at Crufts

Dog handler Dan Thomas and his retired police dog Janus, will take centre stage at Crufts this year, after being shortlisted in the event’s popular Friends for Life competition.

Due to Janus' policing excellence, 285 crime suspects have been arrested since 2008. He also assisted in a further 157 captures.

Janus retired to live with PC Thomas at the end of last year.

It’s the first time a West Midlands Police dog and its handler have been nominated for the award. The pair are up against some tough competition including a dog that helped save the lives of two soldiers in Afghanistan and survived capture by the Taliban.

“The bond between dog and owner is special but the bond between a working dog and handler is amazing. I've spent more time with him over the last few years than my own family," said Dan Thomas.

“He has depended on me and I’ve equally depended on him many times when he’s come to my aid and fended off violent offenders."